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traffic
Posted By: Howard, on host 65.6.61.235
Date: Monday, October 17, 2005, at 15:15:40

Traffic control must vary among intersections, because all intersections are not alike. Traffic loads vary widely. Most busy intersections where two streets cross at right angles, in a relatively flat area, with good visibility, do very well with just a traffic light. It helps if it is one of those computer controlled lights with sensors to help keep track of traffic.

Rural intersections do OK with just a couple of stop signs if one of the crossing roads has light traffic and the other moderate traffic. Four-way stops seem to work very well in residential areas. For some reason, people seem more likely to come to a real stop at a four-way. They treat a two-way as if the sign said "yield."

A "yield"sign works sometimes if traffic is light and visibility is excellent.

A policeman directing traffic is the least workable solution for a number of reason.
1. It's more expensive.
2. Some policemen have no clue as to how to direct traffic.
3. There is an element of danger. A policeman directing traffic is a sitting duck. It isn't real safe for the driver easier.
4. If a policeman is directing traffic it is because there is a problem. It could be just heavy traffic, or a malfunctioning traffic light, but it might be an accident. There is a good chance of delays.
5. Policemen are human, and the most frustrated policemen I have ever seen were those directing traffic. Sometimes it isn't clear what they want you to do.

There is little that can be done where multilane roadways meet at crazy angles, at the crest of a hill, in high traffic areas. Those computer controlled lights, with lots of red, green, and yellow arrows, and bold pavement markings help, but it is going to cost you some time.

Traffic circles seem quaint and they can be anything from confusing, to terrifying, to fun. It largely depends on how much experience drivers have with turning at 1.5 g's, while tires scream, and everybody is looking for their correct exit. The difficulty lies in watching left and right at the same time. (Or in some countries, right and left at the same time.) You can always go around again. And again.

Before left turn arrows, it was common practice for city drivers to turn left by making three right turns. Try it. It works.
Howard

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